Jerry Lee Short

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jerry Lee Short, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who left us peacefully on April 26, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on November 15, 1943, in Texas, Jerry was a devoted resident of Pattonville, Texas, where he shared a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep passion for his craft.

Jerry dedicated his professional life to the agriculture industry as a tractor mechanic, leaving an indelible mark as the last factory-trained mechanic for Oliver Tractor west of the Mississippi. His expertise and commitment to his work were matched only by his enthusiasm for model planes, wood carving, and woodworking, activities that brought him immense joy and allowed him to express his creativity. Jerry had a natural gift of story and joke telling that would leave you laughing for hours.

A man of faith, Jerry was an active member of the Frisco Methodist Church, where he served in the Wesley Sunday School Class and lent his beautiful voice to the choir. He also embraced the community and fellowship found at the Cowboy Church in Reno, Texas. His thirst for knowledge led him to attend the Dallas Seminary and the Citizens Police Academy in Frisco, reflecting his commitment to lifelong learning and service to others.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Short, and their children: son John and Melinda Short, daughter Tammy and Bruce Benton, and daughter Jennifer and Mike Cody. He took great pride in his grandchildren, including Lindsey Grant, Whitney McDonald, Joshua Short, Jordan Smith, Katherine Benton, Grace Benton, Bailey Murphy, Virginia McDowell, and Jack Cody. Great grandchildren Liam, Kennedy, Mason, Mattie, Kaden, Leah, Jude, James, Mia, Madison, Kason, Mateo, Hanni, and Julian, all of whom will forever hold him in their hearts. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Rutha and Ulysses Short and by his siblings, Kenneth, Jo Nell, Wanda, Margaret, Dennis and Theresa.

A graveside service honoring Jerry’s remarkable life will be held on May 1, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Highland Cemetery Pavilion in Deport, Texas. Family and friends are invited to gather as we celebrate the life of a truly wonderful man who touched the lives of so many.

In this time of mourning, we remember Jerry Lee Short as a loving family man, an esteemed craftsman, and a kind-hearted soul who will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

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